West Bengal Governor CV Ananda Bose has referred the controversial anti-rape ‘Aparajita Bill,’ passed by the state assembly, to the President of India for her consideration, citing concerns over procedural lapses. The Bill, aimed at strengthening legal measures against rape and sexual violence, has been at the center of intense political debate and confrontations in the state.
In a statement issued on Friday, Raj Bhavan confirmed that the Bill had been sent to the President after the Governor received the mandatory technical report from the Government of West Bengal.
The Governor’s office, however, expressed dissatisfaction with the assembly secretariat for not providing the necessary debates and their translations, which are required under the legislative process.
It said, “At the end of acrimonious debates, mutual accusations, political threats and ultimatum, the Chief Minister had threatened dharna outside of Raj Bhavan if the Bill is not assented to by the Governor.
The Governor took umbrage at the intimidatory stance of the CM and admonished government for their failure in observing legal and constitutional properties.”
Meanwhile, it is pertinent to note that the Governor had sent the bill for consideration, after the West Bengal Chief Secretary met him, and later in the day, submitted the required technical report. The Governor had then pointed out significant lapses in the Bill’s drafting and passage, warning the government against making hasty decisions without thorough scrutiny. “Don’t act in haste and repent at leisure,” he remarked, urging the state to prioritize proper legislative diligence.
Further, Governor Bose also emphasized that while legislative changes are important, justice for victims should not be delayed. He urged the state government to act within the framework of existing laws to provide justice to victims of sexual violence.
“People cannot wait until the Bill is implemented. They want justice, and justice should be given to them within the framework of the existing law,” he said. “It is the government’s duty to wipe the tears of the bereaved mother who lost her dear daughter.